IMAAN HAMMAM

​Imaan Hammam is a Dutch supermodel and activist of Moroccan and Egyptian descent, celebrated for her influential presence in the fashion industry and her commitment to diversity and empowerment.​

Early Life and Background

Born on October 5, 1996, in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Imaan Hammam is the daughter of an Egyptian father and a Moroccan mother. She grew up in a multicultural household, speaking Arabic at home and embracing her Afro-Arab heritage. Her mother, a seamstress and Dutch language teacher for immigrants, played a significant role in nurturing Imaan's appreciation for fashion and culture. At the age of 13, Hammam was discovered by a modeling agent at Amsterdam's Central Station, marking the beginning of her journey in the fashion world. ​

Modeling Career

Hammam's modeling career took off in 2013 when she made her runway debut for Jean Paul Gaultier Couture. That same year, she opened the Givenchy show in Paris as an exclusive model, a significant milestone that propelled her into the international spotlight. ​

Since then, Hammam has become one of the most sought-after models globally. She has graced the covers of numerous international editions of Vogue, including American, British, French, Italian, and Japanese Vogue, among others. Her impressive portfolio includes campaigns for high-profile brands such as Chanel, Versace, Fendi, Calvin Klein, and Estée Lauder, where she became a global brand ambassador in 2023. ​

Hammam has walked the runways for an array of top designers and fashion houses, including Alexander McQueen, Prada, Dior, Balenciaga, and Victoria's Secret. Her versatility and commanding presence have solidified her status as a leading figure in the modeling industry. ​

Personal Life and Advocacy

Proud of her Afro-Arab roots, Hammam identifies as an Afro-Arab Muslim and uses her platform to advocate for greater representation and inclusivity in fashion. She has spoken openly about embracing her natural curls and encouraging others to celebrate their unique beauty. ​

In 2019, Hammam became the first global ambassador for the nonprofit organization She's the First, which focuses on empowering girls through education. Her involvement includes fundraising, awareness campaigns, and on-the-ground initiatives, such as visiting partner programs in The Gambia. ​

Beyond her modeling and advocacy work, Hammam is multilingual, speaking Dutch, Arabic, and English. She has expressed interests in learning new languages, exploring her heritage, and potentially launching her own beauty brand in the future. ​

Legacy and Impact

Imaan Hammam's rise in the fashion industry has broken barriers and paved the way for greater diversity and representation. Her dedication to authenticity, cultural pride, and social activism continues to inspire many, making her not only a fashion icon but also a role model for aspiring individuals worldwide.​